I need help regarding tube phono preamplifiers
To the Audiogon community. I am currently considering one of three possible all tube phono preamps to incorporate in my two channel system. The three phono stages are 1.Aesthetix Rhea phono preamp 2.Zesto Andros Deluxe II phono stage and 3. Vac Renaissance phono preamp. I will incorporate the stand alone phono preamp into my McIntosh C48 preamp and utilize a Clearaudio Performance DC turntable with a Clearaudio Universal tonearm and Kiseki Purple Heart phono cartridge. If anyone has experience to help me compare the differences between these phono stages I would greatly appreciate the input. Thanks.
@koetsu13 I certainly think that is an avenue worth exploring, the MM input on the Herron bypass the FET front end ( i will ask Keith ). One of my Winter projects is to tune up my venerable Roger Modjeski RM-4 pre preamp….might have to put that between Delos and Herron for grins…. thanks for lighting a fire Best Jim |
Per Mike recommendation, aka @mulveling I rolled some Mazda France production silver / Mica tubes into the front end of the Herron….it’s better but it’s no ARC Reference, nor should it be. Keith does an amazing job with the stock tubes. I hope he can find a way to license production to another respected audio firm so this great design and very well executed product can live on. Jim |
@czarivey Clever ! perhaps i misread their input (s) |
I have a Herron, i don’t agree with the above “ we “ opinion. Any of the 3 phono preamps you are considering can best in certain areas the excellent all around performance and neutrality of the ( unfortunately ) out of production Herron. The Aesthetix has no FET front end and is a tube rollers delight. Jim White also offers an extensive upgrade path without throwing away the chassis, etc… This passion and hobby, especially the analog front end is full of nuance… Enjoy the music. Jim |
